42 Japan-Linked Ships Still Stranded in Persian Gulf

Tokyo, April 8 (Jiji Press)–While the United States and Iran reached a two-week ceasefire agreement, 42 Japan-linked ships still cannot leave the Persian Gulf due to Iran’s de facto blockade of the Strait of Hormuz. Iran has suggested that it will allow ships to safely pass through the strait, a key checkpoint for energy shipments, during the two-week period, provided that they coordinate with its military. However, specific procedures remain unclear. “It’d be good if the remaining ships can leave as soon as possible,” said an official of the Japanese Ship Owners’ Association. “We’re closely monitoring the situation.” In a social media post, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi indicated that vessels would be able to sail through the strait after coordinating with the military and assessing technical constraints. However, a shipping industry source said that this post contains “no reliable and specific information.” A shipping firm official said there has been “no change in the situation.” The 42 remaining ships include 12 crude oil tankers, which can carry oil equivalent to about 10 days of Japan’s domestic consumption, as well as chemical tankers carrying liquid products, vehicle carriers, liquefied natural gas ships and tankers carrying petroleum products. Normally, a two-week period is enough time for these ships to exit the Persian Gulf. However, even if safe passage is guaranteed, shipping companies alone cannot decide on departure because they need to consult with cargo owners. “We don’t even have information for consultations (with cargo owners) at the moment,” an industry source said. Amid the blockade, three Mitsui O.S.K. Lines Ltd. ships have passed through the strait. The company said that it would continue to prioritize the safety of its ships, crew members and cargo. END [Copyright The Jiji Press, Ltd.]